Ivory Coast announce 23-man squad for U-17 Africa Cup of Nations

Ivory Coast have officially released their 23-man squad for the upcoming U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, confirming a youthful and competitive selection as the country prepares for the continental tournament.

The squad, made up of players drawn from several domestic academies and clubs, reflects the depth of emerging talent within Ivorian youth football.

The group has been carefully selected across all departments, with the technical team naming three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and seven forwards.

In goal, the trio consists of Adama Diabaté (FC San Pedro), Cheick Sarambe (ASEC Mimosas), and Ibrahim Tounkara (RCA), all expected to compete for the starting position during the tournament.

The defence features a mix of physical presence and technical ability, including Fousseini Bamba (ASEC Mimosas), Mohamed Fofana (WAC), Emmanuel Zoko (Stade d’Abidjan), Koudougnon Drebo (Volcan FC), Aloussen Diakité (Empire FC), Mory Doumbia (Yamoussoukro FC), and Tie Zon (Kessie FC).

In midfield, Ivory Coast have selected Abdoul Doumbia (SOA), Hamza Coulibaly (JACA), Youssouf Diabaté (FC San Pedro), Salia Traoré (Africa Sports), Landry Bazongo (ASEC Mimosas), and Souleymane Tuo (CF Bravo), offering a balance of creativity and defensive stability.

The attacking department is led by Ange Nomane (Yamoussoukro FC), Songui Glao (Zoman FC), Harafat Diabaté (RCA), Souleyman Koné (RCA), Broulaye Cissé (Empire FC), and a double selection from FC San Pedro in Hubert Yao and Hassan Koné.

With a blend of players from established academies such as ASEC Mimosas and emerging local clubs, Ivory Coast will be hoping this group can deliver a strong campaign at the U-17 AFCON and further reinforce the nation’s reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent producers of young talent.

Ivory Coast are in Group B alongside Cameroon, DR Congo and Uganda.